Ekiti Amotekun Arrests 16 Suspected Bandits Near Kwara Border

Sixteen individuals suspected to be bandits have been arrested by the Ekiti State Security Network Agency, Amotekun Corps, following an attempt to enter the state from neighbouring Kwara State. The arrests were carried out by operatives attached to the Oye Local Government Command, in what officials describe as a proactive security response.

The development was confirmed in a statement made available to journalists by the Corps’ Director of Information, Mr. Adeleye.

According to the statement, tension began to rise in the Gede Farm settlement in Isan-Ekiti after residents noticed a large group of unfamiliar persons moving around the area with herds of cattle. Their presence reportedly disrupted normal activities and sparked fear within the community.

Concerned locals alerted security operatives, prompting swift action by the Oye Local Government Amotekun Command. Additional operatives were immediately deployed after nearby units were informed, leading to a coordinated operation that resulted in the arrest of the suspects.

Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspects may have moved from Kwara State following intensified security operations targeting banditry in that area. During interrogation, some of the individuals reportedly admitted involvement in cattle rustling, while several of the recovered cows were alleged to have been taken from residents of Kwara State.

Items recovered from the suspects during the operation included:

• Cash

• Seven Tecno mobile phones

• Various charms

• Three identity cards belonging to the Vigilante Group of Nigeria (VGN)

• Several cows

The Ekiti banditry arrest has been described by the Amotekun Corps as a clear example of the importance of community vigilance and rapid response in preventing the spread of interstate crime.

According to the agency, both the suspects and the recovered items have been handed over to the Rapid Response Squad of the Ekiti State Police Command in Ado-Ekiti for further investigation and possible prosecution.

Security officials say the Ekiti banditry arrest underscores the growing need for collaboration between local communities, state security outfits, and federal law enforcement agencies, especially in border areas vulnerable to criminal infiltration.

Residents have been urged to continue reporting suspicious movements, as early information remains a critical tool in maintaining peace and protecting livelihoods.